Gay Marriage Law Passes Rhode Island House
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Mario Tama/Getty Images(PROVIDENCE, R.I.) — Members of the Rhode Island House passed legislation that would allow gay and lesbian couples to marry in the only New England state where they cannot. The chamber erupted in applause and cheers when state House Speaker Gordon Fox announced the 51-19 tally.
Before Thursday’s vote, State Rep. Christopher Blazejewski urged colleagues to vote “on the right side of history.”
“It will become the law of the state — not only the law of this state, but the law of every state of this nation. It may not be tomorrow, but it’s only a matter of time. Talk to anyone under the age of 40,” Blazejewski said Thursday.
State Rep. Arthur Corvese argued against the measure, maintaining that gay marriage would not be in the “best interest of the common good.” He added that same-sex marriage “defies common sense” and is “contrary to the natural law.”
The state Senate has yet to take up the measure.
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